Frequently Asked Questions

Asphalt shingle roofs typically last 15 to 25 years in the Canadian climate, while metal roofs can last 40 years or more. Lifespan depends on ventilation, ice-dam exposure and maintenance. A roof inspection tells you where your roof stands and how much life remains. Two identical roofs in different conditions can age very differently: poor attic ventilation, recurring ice dams and deferred maintenance all shorten the life of any system. The surest way to plan is a written inspection that records remaining shingle life and flashing condition, so you can budget a replacement before a failure forces an emergency. Ask us for that assessment before you assume the worst.

Curling or missing shingles, granules in the gutters, daylight through the attic, sagging, and repeated leaks all point to a roof nearing the end of its life. If repairs are becoming frequent, a replacement is often more economical than ongoing fixes. From inside, watch for water stains on ceilings, a musty attic, or daylight showing through the sheathing. If you are seeing several of these signs at once, book an inspection rather than waiting for the next storm — catching a failing roof early gives you time to plan the work and the budget instead of reacting to an active leak.

Yes. Emergency leaks and storm damage are repaired year-round, including winter. Some work, like full shingle replacement, is best scheduled for milder conditions, but temporary measures keep water out until a permanent fix is possible. In winter we focus on stopping water and protecting the interior — tarping, sealing and temporary patches that hold until conditions allow a permanent repair. Adhesive shingle seals and some membranes need warmth to bond properly, so we schedule full replacements for milder weather while still responding quickly to active leaks and storm damage in the cold months. Call as soon as you notice a leak so we can protect the interior fast.

Asphalt shingles offer the best balance of cost and performance for most homes. Metal roofing sheds snow well and lasts decades, making it strong for high-snow regions. The right choice depends on your budget, roof slope and local climate. For low-slope and flat sections, membrane systems like TPO, EPDM or modified bitumen are the right answer rather than shingles. Because Canada's climate varies so much from coast to coast, the best material for your roof depends on local snow load, wind exposure and freeze-thaw cycles — which is exactly what we factor into every recommendation and quote. Tell us about your home and we will recommend the right fit.

Ice dams form when heat escaping into the attic melts roof snow, which refreezes at the cold eaves and traps water. Proper attic insulation, ventilation and ice-and-water shield at the eaves are the most effective prevention. Left unchecked, the trapped water backs up under the shingles and leaks into the wall and ceiling below, often far from the eave where the dam formed. Beyond insulation and ventilation, sealing attic air leaks and keeping eaves clear all help. We detail ice-and-water protection at the eaves and valleys on every roof we build for this climate. We are glad to explain what we find in your attic in plain terms.

Yes. Every roofing project starts with a free written quote based on an inspection of your roof, so you know the scope and price before any work begins. The written quote lays out the scope, the materials, the price and an expected timeline, so there are no surprises once work begins. There is no obligation and no pressure — you are free to compare it, ask questions, or take time to decide. We would rather you understand exactly what your roof needs than rush a decision. Reach out whenever you are ready and we will get you a number quickly.

A typical residential roof replacement takes one to three days depending on size, complexity and weather. Larger or steep roofs and commercial buildings take longer. Your quote includes an expected timeline. Weather is the main variable: rain or high wind can pause a tear-off, since an open roof has to stay protected. Steep pitches, multiple layers to remove, and complex details like dormers, skylights and chimneys all add time. Your written quote includes a realistic schedule and we keep you updated if conditions change once the work is underway. We will always give you a realistic window rather than an optimistic one.

Metal roofing costs more upfront but lasts much longer, sheds snow, resists fire and needs little maintenance. Over the life of the roof it often costs less per year than replacing asphalt shingles two or three times. Metal is also fully recyclable, adds resale appeal, and modern systems are no louder than other roofs once properly installed over solid decking. The higher upfront cost buys decades of low-maintenance service, which is why owners planning to stay in a home long-term often find metal the better value despite the larger initial investment. We are happy to walk you through the cost-per-year math for your roof.

Common flat-roof systems include EPDM rubber, TPO membrane and modified bitumen. Each is suited to different buildings and budgets. Flat roofs need correct slope and drainage to avoid ponding water. Each system has its strengths: EPDM is durable and economical, TPO offers a reflective heat-welded seam, and modified bitumen is tough underfoot. Whatever the membrane, a flat roof lives or dies by its drainage and its detailing at penetrations and edges, so we focus there and check the slope so water always finds its way to the drains. We inspect those details closely on every flat roof we quote or service.

Insurance often covers sudden damage from storms, wind or fallen trees, but not wear and aging. A written inspection report documents the damage, which helps support an insurance claim. Most policies treat sudden, accidental damage differently from gradual wear, so timing and documentation matter. Our written inspection report photographs and describes the damage so you have clear evidence for your adjuster. We are happy to coordinate with your insurer's process, though we always recommend confirming coverage details directly with your provider before work begins. Keep any photos you took right after the damage occurred, as they help. That way you can plan with confidence and avoid costly surprises later on.

Look for lifted or missing shingles, dented metal, displaced flashing and debris after a storm. Damage is not always visible from the ground, so a professional inspection confirms whether repairs are needed. Wind can lift and crease shingles without tearing them off, and hail leaves bruises that only show up later as leaks, so damage is easy to miss from the ground. After any major storm it is worth booking a professional inspection — a documented report protects both your roof and any insurance claim you may need to file. A quick inspection after a storm is the cheapest insurance you can get.

A roof should be inspected at least once a year and after major storms. Regular inspections catch small problems like worn flashing or lifted shingles before they become costly leaks. An annual inspection, plus a check after any major wind or hail event, is the simplest way to protect your roof. We look at shingles, flashing, sealant, ventilation and the eaves, and give you a written record of the condition. Catching a lifted shingle or worn flashing early is far cheaper than repairing the water damage it would cause. We will leave you with a clear written record after every visit.

Repair fixes a specific problem like a leak or damaged section, while replacement installs a whole new roof. Repair makes sense when the roof is otherwise sound; replacement is better when the roof is near the end of its life. Cost is the deciding factor as much as condition: when repairs start adding up year after year, replacing the roof usually costs less over time than a string of patches. We give you an honest read on where your roof stands and lay out both options with prices, so you can choose based on real numbers rather than guesswork. Either way, we stand behind the work with a written workmanship warranty.

RooFix provides roofing service in cities across all ten Canadian provinces. Check our service areas page for your city, or request a free quote and we'll confirm coverage. Every city page is built around local conditions — snow load, ice dams and freeze-thaw all shape the right roof for your area. If you do not see your city listed, request a quote anyway and we will confirm whether we cover your address. Our goal is roofing planned for the weather your home actually faces. Coverage keeps expanding, so it is always worth asking about your address. That way you can plan with confidence and avoid costly surprises later on.

Yes. RooFix roofing work is licensed and insured, and every project comes with a written quote and workmanship warranty so you are protected from start to finish. The workmanship warranty means that if an issue arises from how the roof was installed, we come back and make it right. Being licensed and insured also protects you: you are not liable for a worker injured on your property, and the written quote ties the price and scope together so the job is accountable from start to finish. Ask to see proof of both before any roofer starts work on your home.